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Tulum Ruins and Cenote Tour: A Day of History and Refreshing Waters

Combine a trip to the scenic Tulum Ruins with a refreshing swim in a cenote for the perfect mix of history and adventure.

Tulum’s seaside ruins, perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean, are a must-see for anyone visiting the area. After exploring the ruins, a nearby cenote swim offers a perfect cool-down, with options ranging from open-air pools to secluded cave cenotes.

Entrance Fees and Tour Options

The entrance fee for the Tulum Ruins is around $4 USD (80 MXN). Many visitors, however, choose a guided tour to learn more about the Mayan history and architecture, with prices for Tulum-only tours starting at $25-$35 USD.

For a combined Tulum and cenote experience, you can find tours ranging from $60-$100 USD per person, depending on the cenote and additional inclusions.

  • Popular Cenotes Near Tulum: Dos Ojos, Gran Cenote, and Cenote Calavera are some of the top choices for an afternoon swim after the ruins. Cenote entrance fees vary but are typically around $10-$15 USD per person.

  • Combo Packages: Some tours offer a Tulum ruins and cenote combo, often including transportation, guides, and cenote admission, with prices around $80-$90 USD.

Best Time of Day to Visit

Arriving at Tulum Ruins in the early morning (around 8-9 AM) is ideal to avoid the midday heat and crowds. Early entry allows you to explore the ruins comfortably, leaving time to visit a cenote in the late morning or early afternoon when the water is especially refreshing.

Getting to Tulum Ruins and Nearby Cenotes

  • By Car: Tulum is accessible via Highway 307. If you’re driving, there is parking available near the ruins for around $5 USD.

  • Tours with Transportation: Many tours offer round-trip transportation from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, or Tulum, making it easy to enjoy a full day of activities without the hassle of driving.

  • Public Transportation: From Playa del Carmen or Cancun, you can take an ADO bus to Tulum, then a quick taxi ride to the ruins and nearby cenotes.

What to Bring

  • Comfortable Walking Shoes: Exploring the Tulum Ruins requires some walking, so wear sturdy shoes or sandals.

  • Swimwear and Towel: Pack swimwear and a quick-dry towel for your cenote visit.

  • Hat, Sunglasses, and Sunscreen: Tulum’s open spaces are very sunny, so a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and eco-friendly sunscreen are essential.

  • Reusable Water Bottle and Light Snacks: Stay hydrated, and consider bringing a light snack for energy between the ruins and cenote.

Insider Tips

  • Go Early for Photos: The morning light is perfect for photography, and you’ll have fewer people in your shots.

  • Stay Respectful: The Tulum ruins are a historically significant site, so be respectful of the ancient structures.

  • Check for Discounts: Some cenotes offer discounted entrance fees if you show a receipt from a Tulum tour or if you combine multiple cenotes in one visit.

Book Your Adventure to Sian Ka’an and Tulum Today!

Whether you’re kayaking through the tranquil waters of Sian Ka’an or exploring the fascinating ruins and refreshing cenotes of Tulum, these excursions offer a unique way to connect with the Yucatán Peninsula’s rich history and natural beauty.

Ready to experience the wonders of Sian Ka’an and Tulum? Book your retreat today with Next Phase Learning and prepare for an unforgettable journey filled with exploration, relaxation, and the magic of Mexico’s Caribbean coast!